Henin-Hardenne, the defending champion, and previously the winner on the Parisian crushed brick in 2003, is regarded as the favourite against Russian Svetlana Kuznetsova, an opponent she has beaten 10 times in their 11 matches.

But Henin-Hardenne has been thinking back to events in Melbourne Park last January. Trailing by a set and a break against France's Amelie Mauresmo, she controversially said that she could not continue because of a stomach upset caused by a reaction to anti-inflammatory tablets she had been taking for her shoulder.

Henin-Hardenne was heavily criticised for not playing on and allowing Mauresmo the opportunity to win her first slam in more favourable circumstances.